First Look Fridays Interview Series: Los Angeles Street Artist MegZany

I have a not-so-mild obsession with street art. As someone who lives in Los Angeles, this isn't really that shocking, as street art can be found on almost every corner and brings so much life, character and beauty to the city. But there are only a treasured few street artists who bring joy to me each time I happen upon one of their pieces, ones who connect to my soul. MegZany is one such artist. Her art is fun and girly, but with a powerful and strong sensibility that make me stop, stare, contemplate and, ultimately, fall in love. And, okay, I am also pretty darn obsessed with her amazing pink hair.

I first learned about MegZany when I came across one of her pieces featuring Strawberry Shortcake. But these weren't just any ordinary pieces featuring the deliciously scented childhood favorite! Read on to see just what I'm talking about -- plus, get MegZany's top tip for getting rid of fine lines around your eyes, learn how she first became interested in art and so much more.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I went from selling humans legally in the corporate world to installing art illegally in the streets. Currently fighting for equality whilst spreading positive messages around the world. Knowing what you want to do with your life and allowing yourself to do what makes your heart sing (regardless of social norms) is the most incredible gift one can give themselves.

One of MegZany's newest works can be found on Melrose Avenue in LA. I love the simple yet strong message encouraging and empowering women to be their best selves.

How did you first become interested in art, and what led you to become an artist -- and especially a street artist?
I've been an artist all my life. I never thought I could be a street artist simply because I didn't think my art was good enough. One day in February 2016, that all changed for me. I stopped being a jerk to myself and decided to chase my dreams. I met a fellow artist and they taught me how to make my reusable stencils instead of the stencils that I was using, which were one-time use. After I hit the streets for the first time, I decided I would never return to the corporate world.

I especially love your pieces featuring Strawberry Shortcake and mermaids. What inspired you to start painting those? And where does your inspiration generally come from?
I always want the things that surround me to make me happy.

Mermaids: I’ve been drawing them since I was a kid. They are so majestic and induce an instant smile.

One of MegZany's mermaid pieces can be found on this phone booth in London's Covent Garden.

"Swim to the beat of your own current." How much more inspirational can you get?

Strawberry Shortcake: As kids, there are always clear-cut messages and morals in cartoons. As adults, the messages in TV and life become complicated and we lose those direct messages. I decided to bring adult life morals and clear-cut messages to the streets. So featuring Strawberry Shortcake (my childhood fave) with messages like, “Don’t be a dick” was a clear choice for me.

MegZany's famed "Don't be a dick" art. This can be found in Austin.

Words to live by! Strawberry Shortcake sure is brilliant. This work can be found in Brooklyn.

YASSS, QUEEN! This amazing set of five Strawberry Shortcake cards can be found at Miami's Wynwood Walls.

Let's talk beauty for a minute, too. What are your top 5 beauty essentials?
I love my beauty regimen because it’s very simple and somewhat unconventional.

L'Occitane Hand Cream. I moisturize with this. My biggest secret -- I use it around my eyes! It hydrates and gets rid of the fine lines and dark circles.

ALTERNA Haircare Caviar Repair RX Instant Recovery Shampoo and Conditioner. They keep my pink locks super soft.

Floss then Listerine. This makes teeth so pearly white.

Water. It's the best ingredient for your body. I drink a glass right when I wake up, before and after each meal and a couple glasses in between all that.

Positive affirmations. I truly nourish my soul this way. This is a hard and fast beauty essential for me. When I do any of the above, am and pm, I only think positive thoughts about myself and others.

What are your top 3 tips for artists, especially in the world of street art?

1) Pour your heart into it. Don’t hold back.

2) Learn from others. Expose yourself to many different techniques and mediums.

3) Do it for yourself and have fun with it -- this is most important.

What is the most rewarding part of what you do?
I never expected it, but seeing people interact with my art has been incredible. Plus when people write and share about how the art has changed them or helped them -- it's very moving.

Being an artist must be fun, but what do you do in your spare time?
Lately, there hasn't been much spare time. Naps are awesome. And a good upbeat yoga class is great. Reading happens a lot when I travel, which I love. I should really work to schedule in more "spare time," I'm thinking...

How can The Beauty of Life readers find you on social media?
You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

MegZany's photo courtesy of milianeyes.